We have mountains in our way
Barafu camp on Kilimanjaro, almost 4700 metres above sea level, is a good place to ponder.
By Leon Louw, founder of WhyAfrica and Endorphin Expeditions
Barafu is the highest camp site on Mount Kilimanjaro and the last resting place for climbers attempting to summit Uhuru peak, the highest point in Africa.
Hikers that get cut down by the dreaded altitude sickness must remain in Barafu to stabilise at this height, or if their condition deteriorates overnight, are rushed down to lower altitudes on a rickety stretcher carried by six porters as fast as humanly possible.
The rest gets up at midnight and if all goes according to plan, reaches the summit at about 9 o’clock in the morning before heading down immediately to minimise the adverse effect of such high altitudes on the body and brain (Uhuru peak is 5895m above sea level).
Benefits of Barafu
The benefit of sleeping in at Barafu camp is that you can wake up only at sunrise and get the second-best view of the African continent. The prime spot is obviously Uhuru peak at nine.
Barafu is way above the clouds, and if I ever needed a few hours to reflect it was then, while lying in my tent staring at the Alphine desert around me and at the vast African plains below.
Travelling overland across Africa remains one of the greatest adventures one can embark upon, as is climbing Kilimanjaro or, in fact, doing business in Africa.
Expect the unexpected
It all seems easy from a distance, even romantic, but believe me, it’s difficult. Always expect the unexpected.
Never become complacent, tap yourself on the back for a job well done, or sit back and think you’ve done enough. Our work in Africa will never be done. We have no choice but to keep on walking, up or down, one step at a time. Pole Pole!
The next day is always as uncomfortable as today, and the day before. Carefully weigh up your risks and have a back-up plan in case something goes wrong.
If your plans work out the rewards are unbelievable though. If you stumble in the homestretch, well – Akuna Matata…
There’s always a next time.
Asante Sana Kilimanjaro!
We have mountains in our way
